I recently made a post about buying a new home with 2 central ACs that are both old. But it turns out it's the newer system that died and not the 40 year old one. So now I'm faced with potentially replacing both systems. But an idea occurred to me that replacing one or both systems with a ductless mini split system might be a better option. I have no experience with them and know nothing about them though.
I was wondering if there are any particular brands or systems that are considered good/efficient and also work well with some kind of way to automate them. I'm now imagining presence based automations that control the temperature of the room you're in...
Samsung makes one and there is an old community integration for control. Check how good it is working (I am not sure). There are others.
Suggest you do a trade. A little work but a better result.
Mini-splits - stand-alone units with a one - one compressor to heat exchanger. i.e., the Samsung mini-split
Zoned Central - Standard unit with automatic baffle and air flow controls to allow different options in different areas. Works well with a multi-stage compressor.
Single Compressor to Multiple heat exchangers. The coolant is distributed by a smart valve so that each of the exchangers acts like it's own unit. Smart compressor runs in stages based on the load. Advantage is zones but very short or no ducts. Would use registers already in your house. Fewer pieces than a mini-split; however, longer coolant runs.
I have not completed my trades yet and at 77 may never.
I simply use a Broadlink RM4 Mini IR blaster to control my YMGI mini split. Works well.
@waterboysh While IR blasters are ok, your best bet is to get a mini split system that can use regular thermostats with (these won't adjust the louveres or other specialty items, that's what your remote is for). I have an LG mini split, got the boards for regular thermostats and can control them independently with hubitat. Most mini split systems will have the ability to add this option. They support auto fan and auto temp cool/heat etc...
